In the coastal town of Kanyakumari, our legacy began in 1950 with the remarkable journey of Mr. Mani — whose humble beginnings as a taxi cleaner and Guest Service Associate laid the foundation for a lifelong mission in hospitality. Every day, he drove tourists across the scenic routes from Kanyakumari to Trivandrum, learning not just about places, but about people, service, and the true essence of hospitality. With dedication and perseverance, he turned his modest beginnings into a lifelong mission.

In 1966, he laid the cornerstone of his dream by opening his first lodge, the Gopinivash, with just 10 rooms. This bold venture marked the start of a remarkable legacy, forgoing a personal dream home to answer the growing needs of travelers. Step by step, he expanded his ventures — launching Hotel Palace a veg Restaurant, which became a popular, and later the innovative Sangam Lodge, one of the first in Kanyakumari to introduce modern amenities like air-conditioning, television, and generators.

His guiding principle was simple yet profound: Honesty and integrity are the two eyes of any business. Through his leadership, Mr. Mani built more than just hotels — he built trust, comfort, and lasting relationships. His humility never faded; even with success, he stayed grounded, treating his employees like family and his guests like friends in a true home-away-from-home. Over the years, he established many hotels and lodges, creating countless job opportunities and provided sustained business for the local community and suppliers. His dedication not only transformed his own ventures but also helped raise Kanyakumari’s hospitality standards, turning the town into a recognized and welcoming destination for travelers from across the country.

Today, that same spirit finds its standard-bearer in his son, Mr. Gopala Krishnan, guiding the family's next chapter with the Sri Maniya Institute of Hotel Management. Founded to carry forward his father's dream of 'better hospitality,' the institution shapes future hoteliers, chefs, and leaders who embody the timeless values of sincerity, service, and compassion. What began as one man's journey in 1950 has grown into an enduring legacy — a testament to how passion and perseverance can turn the simplest journey into a living tradition that now educates and empowers others.